Gemotions

The gentle hum of the refrigerator was the only sound in the kitchen. Maria had just finished cooking a delicious meal, the aroma of garlic and herbs still lingering in the air. She'd spent the afternoon experimenting with new recipes, and now, with a full stomach and a contented sigh, she felt complete.

The attic had been on her mind. She thought she should go up there, now that she had nothing else to do. She wasn't expecting much, really.

Inside the attic, the air was cool and still. A single ray of sunlight illuminated a small, ornate music box. Maria opened it, the delicate melody filling the space. She felt a lightness in her heart as the music played.